Microwaves Buying Guide

A microwave's power is measured in wattage, with typical models ranging from around 800W to 1,500W. Bigger may be better in this instance, but consider these factors before taking the plunge. Higher wattage means faster cooking food, however if you're only using it for the occasional ready meal, this may not be very important. On the other hand, a more powerful microwave may be a good idea if you're knocking up big meals for the whole family.

Pour one cup of white vinegar and one cup of water into a microwave-safe bowl or measuring jug, put a wooden spoon into the mixture, microwave for 5-10 minutes, remove with an oven mitt and wipe the inside clean with a sponge.

Inside the microwave oven, there is a device called a magnetron, which generates microwaves. When you place food inside the microwave oven and close the door, the microwaves generated by the magnetron are emitted into the cooking chamber. Microwaves are specifically tuned to interact with water molecules, fats, and sugars in food. Water molecules are especially receptive to microwave radiation.

The microwaves penetrate the outer layers of the food and are absorbed by these water molecules, causing them to vibrate and generate heat. As the water molecules in the food absorb microwave energy, they vibrate rapidly, and this vibration produces heat. The heat generated within the food is what cooks it.

You certainly can! Here's how:

1. Put the chicken on a microwave-safe dish to catch any drips and prevent cross-contamination.
2. Most microwaves have a defrost function or power level settings. Use the defrost setting or set the microwave to a low power level. Lower power helps to thaw the chicken more evenly without partially cooking it.
3. Set the microwave timer for a short duration, typically 1-3 minutes, depending on the weight and thickness of the chicken. This will vary based on your microwave's wattage, so you may need to adjust the time accordingly.
4. Continue to defrost the chicken in short intervals, checking and flipping it as needed. Be patient and avoid using the microwave's regular cooking settings to prevent cooking the chicken instead of thawing it.
5. It's essential to cook chicken promptly after thawing to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.